Typically the clarity factor that all clarity characteristics begin with is size. What other factors can affect the grade-setting characteristic?

• A. The depth and table size.
• B. The number of inclusions, location, nature, and relief.
• C. The diamond's weight only.
• D. The age of the diamond.

Answer: (B)

When assessing clarity, you start with the size of any clarity characteristic, but the grade is also shaped by how many inclusions there are, where they are located on the stone, what type they are, and how much they stand out (relief). These factors together determine how visible and distracting the imperfections are under standard viewing conditions. For example, a few tiny inclusions tucked in less noticeable areas may have less impact than a larger inclusion near the center or on a critical facet, which can lower the grade more. Depth and table size relate to how the gem is cut and affect cut grade, not clarity. Carat weight mainly influences size, not the clarity grade by itself, since two stones of the same weight can have different clarity. Age isn’t used in grading clarity either. So the factors that affect the grade-setting characteristic beyond size are the number of inclusions, their location, their nature, and their relief.